Note: For NCF members who want to use Linux for dial-up, particularly on old computer hardware, Puppy Linux supports dial-up very well right "out-of-the-box" for external modems.

What phone number do I use to dial into NCF?

Consult the yellow 'Quick Configuration Info' box at the top-right of this page.

What equipment do I need?

You need:

a computer

a modem

a telephone line

Your computer must have a jack for the phone line and a telephone modem. Dial up modems were common on computers in the early 2000s, but as dial-up has been largely displaced by high speed internet, dial-up modems have become less common and today are rare on new computers. Be sure to inquire when you buy a new computer if you need dial-up access. An internally-mounted dial-up modem is usually inexpensive (about $20). There are also external modems available that plug into a USB port on your computer. These are slightly more expensive (typically about $30), but very easy to install as they just plug into a USB outlet.

The US Robotics model 5637 has been recommended as a good external modem for Linux, Mac and Windows versions except Windows 10. US Robotics has indicated that there is an issue with Windows 10 that prevents it from working with this modem.

To browse the internet, you will need a web browser. These days all operating systems come with browsers installed, but alternate browsers are available for free, such as:

Does NCF offer high-speed access to the Internet?

Yes, NCF offers high-speed DSL internet access. DSL technology ('Digital Subscriber Line') gives you high-speed internet access over your existing telephone line. It is always on, without blocking your telephone and is up to 100 times faster than dial-up, enabling you to do new things on the internet, like watch videos.